After undergoing orthodontics, you’ll need to wear a retainer.
What are retainers?
These are either detachable or fixed appliances that prevent your teeth from moving back into their original position after your braces are taken off.
Retainers help prevent your teeth from relapsing.
Teeth need to be reminded of their new position. Since movement can occur without your knowledge, retainers are critical to the effectiveness of your orthodontic treatment.
Since a plastic retainer is made from a rigid material, your teeth don’t have anywhere to go. They can’t shift around; therefore, they stay in alignment.
A lingual wire works the same way. By being bonded to the teeth, the thin metal holds everything securely.
Several retainers are available, including fixed (metal) and detachable (clear). The type of retainer required is determined by the patient’s recurrence risk, original malocclusion (tooth misalignment), and growth pattern.
Metal wires, also known as fixed (or bonded) retainers, are available in straight and zigzag patterns.
The straight wire is adhered in a straight line across the interior of your teeth, whereas the zigzag wire is attached in a shape that makes it simple for you to floss.
The composite resin is used to glue them to the inside of your teeth to prevent both from moving.
Even though zigzag wires might seem the better choice, your dentist will recommend what they feel is the greatest fit for your teeth based on your gum health, the shape of your teeth, and other variables.
It is crucial to monitor fixed retainers every six months during your check-ups and cleanings because they can come off during your lifetime. If they do manage to come off, our dentists can put them back on or give you a new one.
We advise you to visit our practice as soon as the retainer comes off to stop your teeth from shifting.
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Removable retainers are transparent or metal appliances only worn at night and can be taken out anytime.
They are simple to maintain and have little effect on dental health, although they can alter speech when used. Clear retainers are the ideal choice for patients who can only wear a retainer part-time and are not at high risk of relapse.
There are three types of removable retainers, which are as follows:
*Hawley retainers–– also called wire retainers, composed of an acrylic base and a metal wire. These retainers help maintain the proper alignment of the six anterior teeth after orthodontic treatment.
Hawley retainers are frequently more comfortable than clear retainers and do not alter your natural tooth contact.
*Essix retainers (Clear retainers) –– also called clear retainers, are made of a thin, transparent plastic material. These retainers hold the teeth in place following treatment with clear aligners or braces.
Because your teeth won’t naturally touch, clear retainers may be more uncomfortable than Hawley (metal) retainers.
*Vivera retainer –– is another clear retainer used after Invisalign treatment to keep the teeth in place. This retainer is designed specifically for Invisalign patients.
How long you have to wear a retainer may depend on your case. Generally speaking, most people will wear clear retainers regularly for the first 6 months after orthodontic treatment.
After this, wearing the appliance only while you sleep is required. Lingual wires are always worn since they are permanently in place.
Art De Dente Melbourne CBD provides high-quality orthodontic retainers out of durable and non-invasive materials.
call us on 03 9125 6201 or request an appointment online.
We are located at Level 17, 190 Queen Street in Melbourne CBD.
Orthodontic retainers are custom-made devices, usually made of plastic or metal, that help maintain the position of your teeth after orthodontic treatment. They are crucial for preventing teeth from shifting back to their original positions.
The duration and frequency of retainer use depend on your specific treatment plan. After braces are removed, retainers are typically worn full-time for the first few months before being reduced to nighttime use.
There are mainly three types of retainers:
Retainers should be cleaned daily. You can use non-alcoholic mouthwash or a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Hot water can deform the shape of plastic retainers, so avoid using it. Special retainer cleaning solutions are also available.
Removable retainers should be removed while eating to prevent damage and maintain oral hygiene. Fixed retainers do not require removal, but extra care should be taken to clean around them.
We have a highly skilled and trained team of the best dentists in Melbourne CBD and staff who provide quality dentistry services
